It is true. That United States isnt popular place for backpackers or budget tourists. majority of tourists from abroad go to United States for quick holiday to explore handful of cities before returning home. majority of them stay in big resorts or cities along coast such as Disney. However, it wasnt until COVID.. That Americans across globe were able to get into their vehicles & look around their backyards.
The U.S. is massive country but it has no infrastructure for tourism or adequate inter country transport. Hostels havent caught on yet because trains arent able to traverse across nation. We arent even offering working holiday visas to attract young backpackers who work. In end, its challenge to get to.
However, United States has lot to offer. This includes breathtaking National parks, spectacular landscapes, incredible & diverse culture, high quality music & an array of delicious foods. That are different from regions.
It is my opinion. That that U.S. is one of best places around globe for journey via road. Ive taken number of days of road trips throughout America. United States. cities along coast are entertaining, however theyre not most pleasurable. U.S. really reveals itself better in countryside & middle regions [ its less expensive there too ]. Its areas & parts of America which you will sense specificities.
Even if youre not planning to travel through winter months in vehicle yet theres lot you can discover by train, bus or even aircraft.
This travel guide across America United States can help you navigate around United States without spending dime & also avoiding from beaten path.
Top 5 Things to See & Do in United States
1. Explore New York City
A city. That is never asleep is one of most stunning cities of planet. It is possible to do everything or get an experience & be able to discover each cuisine & language across globe. Its for me one of most important cities in world. World class museums & galleries, from thrilling theater performances, exclusive eateries as well as expansive Central Park, you can explore myriad of attractions in this city. Read my complete guide to things you should learn about.
2. Visit Grand Canyon
Its hard to explain size of what Grand Canyon is. It truly is breathtaking. Most people view canyon from high place. But its sheer size & beauty is best appreciated on hike along Colorado River so try to explore area in event youve got enough time [ make most of ]. Make sure you bring plenty of water especially in summer!
3. Discover Austin
The sunshine lively Honky tonks vibrant bars in house along Rainey Street, amazing walking & cycling trails, plenty of outdoor adventures & many more things Austin has it all. Austin is home to best of everything. city is amazing. Its one of most prestigious cities of U.S., boasting blend of natural, urban & delicious food. You must take big bite of BBQ throughout your time there!
4. Visit Glacier National Park
Its best National Park in America. It is site of breathtaking glaciers, snow capped mountains & breathtaking lake with view of mountain ranges, massive glaciers,and many walking trails. Its among most beautiful places Ive visited in my travels. [ If you plan to visit many national parks while traveling throughout United States, its worth investing in America Beautiful Park Pass which costs just $80 USD. This pass allows you to access each of National parks for length of one calendar year. ]
5. Drive Pacific Coast Highway
The Pacific Coast is considered one among most stunning places around globe. It is famous for its sheer cliffs & forests. That fall into ocean & have long beaches & huge redwoods. Pacific Coast Highway [ PCH ] is component of California State Route 1, one of longest & most historic roads. That is owned by state of United States. trip takes about average of 10 hours with no stops. I recommend minimum of couple of days so. That you can experience all stops along way.
Other Things to See & Do in United States
Notice: Theres lot to do & see in America. United States & you might spend month touring entire country. It is possible to write complete book of most popular places to visit! following list of destinations is meant to give you an concept. Go through my blog entries & also specific city regulations [ scroll through to bottom of list to locate link ] for additional ideas.
1. Have fun in Memphis
Gritty & industrial, Memphis appears as if its difficult days are behind it. But dont let ugly appearance fool you. This city has incredible food choices & captivating blues music scene. city is. That is full of lively, welcoming individuals. I am amazed by how vibrant city is. city is home to Graceland [ Elviss home ] to those who are admirers of Elvis & huge river to stroll along & also gorgeous Museum of Civil Rights [ its huge. So be careful not to rush through it! ]. city is experiencing massive revival currently. Its common knowledge its hidden treasure. That lot of people, in their own way, are avoiding.
2. Discover Asheville
Asheville is home to large selection of craft beer. That is delicious along with delicious food items, as well as plenty of people who are passionate about great outdoors. beautiful Smoky Mountains are short distance away. Asheville Botanical Gardens are right within college & huge Biltmore estate [ the most expensive private residence inside U.S. & was once residence to George Vanderbilt ] is on outskirts of town. [ If youve watched Downton Abbey, thats what Biltmore is! ] There are numerous parks. There are numerous stunning biking & walking trails. That are accessible from towns centre.
3. Explore Redwood National Park
Pacific Coast Pacific Coast is Redwood National Park vast area of redwoods towering over ocean. park is filled with picnic sites, camping spots to camp,and of hiking trails. Trails vary from easy to difficult with many trails leading towards beaches. That are close by. There are trees. That range from 200 to 250 feet tall. Its stunningly beautiful, inspirational & inspiring. park is free for visitors However, all three parks which are located adjacent to it [ Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park Del Norte Coast Redwoods State Park & Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park ] will each be charged $5 USD.
4. Explore Denver
Denver is popularly known as title of Mile High City [ the city is situated 1 mile higher than ocean ], Denver offers mix of rustic outdoor life & big city lifestyle. Denver offers wide craft beer scene, excellent dining establishments [ including, Sushi Sasa, one of my top sushi restaurants ] & worlds largest international airport which is well connected & near mountains. Its clean, lively,and everyone is extremely friendly.
5. Get off the beaten path in Natchez
I was stunned by Natchez. I didnt know about city until it was described as location to see historic houses from in late 19th century. Mansions were planned by owners of plantations from white descent seeking to stay away from summer heat & have place to meet people they knew. As cotton became king, cotton grew in power mansions grew larger & more luxurious. They are historic landmarks to visit while enjoying view across Mississippi River. It is located away from tourist trail & requires car to reach it, however drive is well worth it.
6. Visit Savannah
It is believed. That Georgia coast is place where Savannah is able to escape wrath of during Civil War, allegedly because General Sherman thought it was beautiful enough to be safe from destruction. streets of Savannah are lined with Spanish oaks. That are covered with moss & vast, beautiful & inviting parks,and busy waterways. Savannah is great place for glimpse of peacefulness characteristic of South.
7. Explore scene of rock in Nashville.
Nashville is one of cities expanding fastest in U.S. music scene is thriving [ duh ] along with an increasing drink bar scene & high end home cooked Southern eating establishments. Theres not lot of touristy stuff to do in Nashville but thing. That is what makes Nashville top of my picks is live music scene, food scene & exceptionally friendly residents & optimistic vibe this city tends to exude. When youre in Nashville, make sure to spend some time to visit Tennessee State Museum. It offers in depth details on background of Tennessee [ and is better than you think! ].
8. Enjoy sunshine in San Diego
I love San Diego. climate is in San Diego is nearly every day beautiful. Its result of populace. That is warm & welcoming & is also enthusiastic about wonderful outdoors. From walks, spending time at beach or in running locals love to unwind & enjoy sun. Central Gaslamp region, as well as renowned Pacific Beach is full of chic eateries, busy bar, bustling eateries & some amazing taco shops.
9. Get your wine on in Californias Wine Country
California is where you can find best wine around globe. Going to Sonoma as well as Napa Valley shouldnt be missed. Although Sonoma is cheaper in comparison to Napa However both places are built to spending large amounts of cash. Plan trip, an intimate winery on Airbnb or enjoy day relaxing in sun & taking in wines of area. wine tasting typically costs between fifteen to 20 dollars.
10. Take walk around Lake Tahoe
Lake Tahoe is impressive & beautiful. It is surrounded by mountain communities & mountains, its wonderful place to walk & go to boating tours in summer,and also to ski during winter. For relaxing day in sunshine, it is essential to take break at Kings Beach. If youre looking for hiking trails, have glance at those on Rubicon Trail [ 16 miles/25.7 kilometers ] along with Cascade Falls Trail [ 1.4 miles/2.2 kilometers ].
11. Anywhere in Montana
Theres been lots of news reported about how gorgeous Montana is. words, however, dont give state justice it deserves. I consider it to be one of most breathtaking states in Union as it is awash with stunning mountains,and mountain ranges as far as is possible to. nature lovers will be delighted & theres flourishing craft beer scene within state, as well as an abundance of micro brewery establishments across state.
12. Relax in Cape Cod
Ive had pleasure of spending several summers at Cape since its most New Englanders for summer months. There are number of tiny coastal towns. That lie along coast [ Provincetown as well as Hyannis are among most popular However, Im an avid enthusiast of Chatham, Falmouth, Wellfleet & Brewster ]. If youre in search of boardwalks seafood, beaches as well as perfect getaway destination with your loved ones, make trip towards Cape!
13. Explore Deadwood
In western region in South Dakota, this town was famous during those Old West days [ noteworthy enough to merit highly rated HBO program ]. Wyatt Earp, Calamity Jane, Wild Bill Hickok, as well as myriad of famous gunmen were in town. place is little shabby & rebuilt, however its fascinating to see an eerie view of Old frontier. area is in close proximity to its neighboring areas, including Mount Rushmore, Black Hills & Mount Rushmore which makes it an ideal base to travel around region.
14. Youll be amazed by Kansas City
I thoroughly enjoyed this town which has finest BBQ & an energetic central downtown. Theres an interesting & interesting music museum within premises, in addition to amazing Negro Leagues Baseball Museum [ thats name of its official title ]. Another fantastically underrated & barely explored tourist attraction.
15. Be bit weird in Portland
Portland Portland Experience is amazing. city has an incredible food truck scene, amazing customized bars & bars craft beer culture. That has become religion for locals as well as tranquil parks [ including peaceful Japanese garden ] & an enthralling arts scene. You can also enjoy exploring nearby mountains. Portland is an incredible city to visit, particularly during time of year when there is ideal weather & is filled in celebrations & events throughout city.
16. Enjoy walk through national parks of our country.
America has National parks 63,and myriad of state & local parks. They are most beautiful of American landscape. Yellowstone, Yosemite, Glacier along with Glacier as well as Smokey Mountains, Rocky Mountain Park & Badlands There is no end to list. Make sure you visit each of parks in nation to gain better understanding of diverse & vast landscape of United States. Make use of this map by federal government to find parks in your area! If you plan to visit multiple parks, it is recommended to buy America Beautiful Park Pass at just $80 USD which gives visitors access to all national parks during entire calendar year.
17. Have look at Chicagos architectural splendor. Chicago
A city. That ranks among my favorite cities in world, Chicago is packed with stunning design incredible parks, fantastic meals, as well as vibrant nightlife. Dont miss opportunity to try deep dish pizza [ it is Chicago based dish. That originated in Chicago & is sometimes referred to as stuffed crust pizza ] as well as looking at famous Bean sculpture in Millennium Park. Millennium Park also plays host to one of biggest St. Patricks Day celebrations all over all of United States.
18. Enjoy Mardi Gras in New Orleans
This city, which is French inspired offers fantastic food, Cajun food & live entertainment. trip in New Orleans is an absolute must for anyone who loves music regardless of genre, jazz or blues. Theres live music each night of week [ my favourite spot to go to can be located on Spotted Cat ] & there are numerous amazing walks to showcase distinctive citys traditions & history [ including Ghost & Voodoo tours ]. If youre planning to attend take part in celebration of Mardi Gras in NOLA ensure. That you book your tickets in advance. Hotels can be booked quickly.
19. Hang out in Hawaii
More close to Asia & Asia in greater numbers than United States, Hawaii is Americas slice of South Pacific paradise. White beaches & sparkling sands, white sands ocean, tropical rainforests & gorgeous surfHawaii has everything. Hawaii is perfect place to be tourist destination for all things! Be sure to take in stunning beauty of landscape. That is part of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, dark memorial at Pearl Harbor,and hikes towards Diamond Head & Lanikai Pillbox Trail. Both are situated near Honolulu. Every island is distinctive & has its own distinct look therefore, if you can be there, you must visit many.
20. Check out Boston
It was city. That was place of birth for Revolutionary War. Revolution [ and my hometown. ] It is impossible to leave of Boston unhappy. Boston is big city. But its lack of high rises, as well as cobblestone roads & brick built houses, create an intimate atmosphere of city. Its Freedom Trail, which covers many of most important historic sites, is essential since it offers glimpse into citys rich history. It is must to visit Boston Common & catch an Red Sox game at Fenway Park as well [ the Boston area is awash with sports. ].
21. Visit capital of United States.
The capital city of America is also location to many of most prestigious museums in world. Additionally, due to vast array of foreign ambassadors working located in this city, its no unexpected. That youll find one of most city in world. That is international. Make sure to visit this & its National Mall & all its attractions, such as Holocaust Museum,and various Smithsonian Museums [ some of which prominent are. That belong to Air & Space Museum, Museum of American Indian as well as African American Museum, National Zoo, Smithsonian Castle along with American Art Museum ]. If youre visiting in spring then youll get to see blossoming of blossoms on trees across Mall.
22. Find out more information about Mt. Rushmore
It was constructed in 1941. This landmark was established in year 1941. In 1941, Black Hills of South Dakota isnt as large as one would believe, yet its an excellent stopover when traveling. Indigenous Lakota Sioux lived there. but after gold was found in hills, white settlers were forced to remove them from their homesteads. At time of Wounded Knee massacre, which occurred in year 1897, U.S. forces killed over 250 women & children from indigenous community. Then, decade later Rushmore was completed in moment of anger for indigenous residents of region, who believed site was sacred. There is guide visit to location for more information about monuments complex & tragic history.
23. Be kid at Disney World
Sure, its cheesy. Its true. That it was created specially for kids. But its far from being authentic. But Disney World is still fun & offers range of things to do for adults too. Recently, I was at Disney World to Disney World as an adult,and I found lots to explore & enjoy. There are plenty of great restaurants & Disney Springs has fun nightlife. If youre within Florida ensure you take break to take few days. Indulge your inner child. Tickets start at $110 USD per day & increase in cost as you go.
24. Hike Appalachian Mountains
It extends across eastern coast in America mountains along eastern coast are amount of approximately 500 millions years. They are great for opportunities for hiking, camping & hiking. If youd like to go on long term benefits of hiking, you can take 2190 mile [ 3,524 kilometer ] Appalachian Trail which encompasses entire range of mountain peaks & will take seven up to 7.5 months to finish. You can also go on morning hikes or even weekend hikes along its various sections if want to have more relaxed outdoors experience.
25. Unwind in Put In Bay
One of coolest & hidden places in U.S. is this group of islands in Lake Erie. It is favorite among Midwesters [ but not well known to anyone apart from their own ], South Bass Island is home to Put in Bay, where Midwest hospitality is combined with Caribbean spirit [ you are able to ride golf carts or bar carts equipped with sand floors ]. My favorite is located in Mojito Bay, an outdoor Tiki bar. That has floor of sand, as well as swings. That lead to seating in bar, which offers more than 25 mojitos. Mojito Bay is raunchy place during weekends, too.
26. Explore Maine
In northern part of state Maine is place. That brings to mind endless beaches & wild forest, famous lighthouses & even lobster dinners. area is often overlooked but its amazingly gorgeous & perfect location for short drive. Try lobster rolls [ a popular local dish ] along with hiking through Acadia National Park. Portland is home to number of great dining establishments [ such like Duckfat as well as Eventide Oyster Co. ] & gorgeous lighthouses. That are historical. One of most historical in Maine lighthouse is its oldest operational one, Portland Head Light. Portland Head Light, which was first inaugurated in 1791 at time George Washington was president.
27. Take drive on roads
The only way to see this vast & diverse area along with towns & villages which make up this region is via car. Highly recommended you hire cars to drive through entire U.S. Its fantastic adventure. Ive had pleasure of taking several coast tocoast trips as well as regional tours throughout New England, California & within South. This is most efficient method to see bit of America & get everything for less than 50 USD daily.
28. Take trip of lifetime
Theres an array of amazing cycling tours, walks,and even food tours across country. These tours are great way to get full comprehension of region youre touring with help by local professional. Find walks is my favorite walking tour guide when looking for information. That is comprehensive [ and entertaining ]. Theyll show visitors inside of their business & give more info. That average walk in tour. That is free. If youre looking for tour. That lasts several days, go with Intrepid. Intrepid. I love their trips as theyre only capable of accommodating smaller groups & employ skilled local guides. Also, they are environmentally friendly & eco friendly.
Accommodation
Hostels can be found all over large cities, however there are limited number of options. room with four or more beds can be costing between $35 & $55 USD per night. In rooms. That have more beds, they might be bit more expensive. Private rooms are typically priced between $100 & 125 dollars. Prices can be more expensive in larger cities & when season is in high demand. Free WiFi is available in many hostels offering self catering facilities. Hostels. That offer breakfast for free breakfast are rare.
If youre thinking of camping or camping, be ready to spend between $10 & $20 dollars per night for basic camping site for two people with no electricity energy.
The most affordable motels usually cost about 60 to 70 dollars per night. You can find them at any time. Expect basic amenities including TV, Wi Fi as well as AC. Some hotels offer pools.
Two star hotels with lowest prices are priced at 90 USD for one night [ in most populated cities theres price about $125 ]. Important to remember. That U.S. is very vast &. That prices can vary based on location youre located in. Therefore, be sure to look over city guides. That are. That are specific to your location which are below for further details regarding accommodation. Important to remember. That United States is too diverse for specific number of people to count!
Airbnb can be found all over world,and bedrooms starting as low as $45 USD [ though typical rate is about double. That ]. For rental of an entire house or apartment, you must be ready to pay at least 100 USD per night. For cities. That are large, rates usually double.
Food
The food & drinks available In America is reasonably priced & diverse. From seafood & other fish from New England to BBQ in South to Tex Mex & all natural whole foods in across West to German influence on food of Midwest Theres not singular type of food in US. Each region has their distinct food traditions.. That means youll never get bored with drinks & food across United States.
Since country is huge & vast, prices can vary greatly. $5 price in Kansas is likely to cost between 15 to $15 for New York City. Below are typical costs across nation. However when youre in one of major cities or coast & reside in coastal town it is recommended to add about 25% to this.
Sandwiches to buy & take to go usually cost approximately $7 USD. Fast food costs approximately $9 USD for mix meal. Food trucks will cost you anywhere from 10 to 15 dollars. Casual eateries in middle can cost between 25 & 30 dollars for food & beverages. If you locate restaurant which is more formal [ think tables with white cloths ] it is possible to spend at least 60 dollars for dinner. price increases after that,and theres no ceiling. Additionally, expect an huge ranges of prices in addition to higher rates in larger cities.
You can usually find pizzas for takeaway. That are priced between $10 to $15 dollars. Chinese & Thai food items start around 10 12 dollars for an important meal.
A pint of lager cost between $6 8 USD. glass of wine will cost between $10 & $8 USD,and cocktails start at about $14 in major cities [ about twenty dollars for NYC! ]. Cappuccinos & latte cost between $4 & $5 while bottles of water cost $1.50 USD. If you cook your own. You can spend around $60 week for food staples like rice, pasta & even some cuts of meat.
Backpacking United States Suggested Budgets
What are costs for travel to America? United States? This is matter of individual preference. However, your cost is contingent on where within United States youre going to travel to. For instance, New York City is substantially more costly compared to Memphis & San Francisco is going to be more expensive than Boise. general consensus is. That South is least expensive region when compared to North states. States. That are located in interior are less expensive than those in coastal regions. Theres an array of possible comparisons however this listing can provide brief outline of things you should be expecting to see based on type of travel you prefer to do.
If your budget for backpacking of 75 USD per day, it is possible to stay in hostels, cook your meals. You can also use public transportation system to travel as well as limit amount drinks you consume,and take on activities. That are free such as hikes or walking tours or just relaxing on beach. If youre planning to drink more, increase your spending by $10 20 USD day. If youre able to sleep in your tent or Couchsurf, you could cut this down to 50 60 USD daily.
If youre on budget in mid range like $210 USD per week, it is possible to stay in an Airbnb which is private or even motel. Take advantage of dining out for many meals & have more drinks or take ride in city & participate in more events. That are paid for, such as museums & food tours.
If you have luxury budget of $350 USD or more per day, you can stay in hotel, eat wherever you want, enjoy an alcoholic drink in bar, rent car to drive around as well as take guided tours & any other excursions youd like. Its not only level of luxury. Theres no limit to what you can accomplish!